When is Polish Independence Day?

Polish Independence Day is celebrated annually on November 11th. This holiday is officially called Narodowe Święto Niepodległości in Polish. Every year, it brings together citizens to honor the nation’s independence and reflect on its history. The date holds great importance as it symbolizes freedom and resilience for the people of Poland.

 Is the Independence Day of Poland a Public Holiday?

Yes, Independence Day on November 11th is a public holiday in Poland. It marks the anniversary of the country regaining its independence in 1918. On this day, banks, government offices, schools, and most businesses remain closed, giving people time to participate in events and ceremonies. However, some smaller convenience stores may stay open to meet public needs. This makes it a specific holiday observed nationwide with strong cultural and historical significance.

 History of Polish Independence Day

Polish Independence Day commemorates the re-establishment of the state of Poland at the end of the first world war in 1918. Before this, the nation had been partitioned for 123 years under Prussia, Austria, and Russia. On November 11th, 1918, as the war ended, the partition was removed and Poland was finally granted independence.

During this time, the Polish Military Organisation’s secret departments played a crucial role. Soldiers and legionnaires demobilized, disarming Germans in Warsaw and other Polish towns. The Regency Government appointed Józef Piłsudski as commander in chief of the Polish forces. Just three days later, he gained full civil control, forming a new centralized government. On November 21st, he issued a manifesto with agricultural reforms and more favorable conditions for workers, while also calling for parliamentary elections.

November 11th was announced a national holiday in 1937. Yet, in 1945, after the Yalta conference and Stalin’s influence following the second world war, the communist regime abolished it. The holiday was reinstated in 1989 after the collapse of the Communist government. Today, the day is festive, with parades, cultural programs, and ceremonies across the country. People also enjoy a countdown to November 11th each year, and a festive counter in many cities reminds them of the approaching celebrations. These elements create a strong sense of unity and anticipation. The countdown is not only a symbol of time passing but also of national pride that continues to grow with each passing year.

 Capital of Poland

Warsaw, officially the Capital City of Warsaw, is the capital and largest city of Poland. It is located on the River Vistula in east-central Poland. The city has a population of 1.86 million residents, while the greater metropolitan area reaches 3.27 million. This makes it the 6th most-populous city in the European Union. Covering 517 km² with 18 districts, Warsaw serves as a major political, economic, and cultural hub, as well as the seat of government. It is also the capital of the Masovian Voivodeship.

The city traces its origins to a small fishing town in Masovia. It rose in prominence during the 16th century, when Sigismund III moved the Polish capital and his royal court from Kraków. By the 18th century, Warsaw had surpassed Gdańsk in population and became central to the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth until 1795. Later, under Napoleon, it became the seat of the Duchy of Warsaw.

The 19th century Industrial Revolution brought a demographic boom, making Warsaw one of the largest and most vibrant cities in Europe. However, World War II in 1939 devastated the city. The Ghetto Uprising in 1943 and the Warsaw Uprising in 1944 led to widespread destruction, leaving much of the historic city razed.

Modern Warsaw has since been rebuilt and thrives as an alpha global city. Its public transport includes the Warsaw Metro, buses, commuter rail, and an extensive tram network. Economically, it is home to the Warsaw Stock Exchange, the largest in Central and Eastern Europe. The city is also a center for international organizations such as Frontex and ODIHR.

Warsaw features cultural landmarks like the Old Town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, along with the Royal Castle, Sigismund’s Column, Wilanów Palace, Palace on the Isle, and St. John’s Archcathedral. Known for its green spaces, about a quarter of the city is covered with parks. It also hosts the Warsaw Marathon and is home to famous sports clubs such as Legia and Polonia. Together, these features make the capital a prosperous, modern, and culturally rich city, central to Poland’s identity and its Independence Day celebrations.